Durga Puja 2025

Durga Puja is one of the most awaited Hindu festivals, celebrated with grandeur, devotion, and joy, especially in West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, Bihar, Tripura, and across the world wherever Bengalis live. The festival worships Maa Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the eternal triumph of good over evil.

In 2025, Durga Puja will be celebrated in September. The festival lasts for five main days—from Shashthi to Dashami—with rituals, worship, cultural events, and community feasting.

Durga Puja 2025 Dates

According to the Hindu lunar calendar, Durga Puja begins on Shashthi and ends on Vijaya Dashami.

• Mahalaya: September 21, 2025 (Invocation of the Goddess)
• Shashthi: September 28, 2025 (Goddess Durga arrives)
• Saptami: September 29, 2025
• Ashtami: September 30, 2025 (Sandhi Puja – the most powerful ritual)
• Navami: October 1, 2025
• Dashami (Vijaya Dashami): October 2, 2025 (Immersion of idols – Durga Visarjan)

👉 Note: Dates can slightly differ based on regional Panchang (Hindu calendar) and local temple announcements.

Rituals of Durga Puja

1. Mahalaya – The official beginning, when devotees recite Chandi Path and invite Goddess Durga.
2. Shashthi – The unveiling of Maa Durga’s face in pandals.
3. Saptami – Sacred rituals begin with Kola Bou Snan (bathing of a banana plant symbolizing Durga’s form).
4. Ashtami – The biggest day with Sandhi Puja, Pushpanjali, and Kumari Puja.
5. Navami – Maha Aarti and last full day of worship.
6. Dashami – Married women perform Sindoor Khela (smearing of vermilion), followed by idol immersion (Visarjan).

Cultural Significance

Durga Puja is not only about worship—it is also a cultural festival:

• Pandal Hopping – Visiting creative themed pandals and admiring art.
• Dhak Beats & Dhunuchi Naach – Traditional music and dance that set the festive mood.
• Bhog (Community Feast) – Khichdi, labra, chutney, payesh, and sweets served to all.
• Family & Social Gatherings – People wear new clothes, exchange gifts, and celebrate together.

History of Durga Puja

The story comes from the Devi Mahatmya (Markandeya Purana), where Goddess Durga, created by the powers of gods, killed Mahishasura after a fierce battle. Symbolically, she represents Shakti (divine power) protecting dharma against evil.

Durga Puja evolved in Bengal during the late medieval period and became a major festival during the 16th–18th centuries, later growing into a blend of devotion, culture, and social unity.

Why Durga Puja Matters

• It reinforces the eternal truth: good always defeats evil.
• It celebrates Shakti, the divine feminine power.
• It is a mix of faith, culture, food, and art, making it one of the richest traditions of Hinduism.

Note on Dates

Since Durga Puja follows the Hindu lunar calendar, dates may vary slightly by region. For the most accurate schedule, it is best to confirm with your local temple or regional Panchang.